CVE-2022-21223 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an in-depth analysis of CVE-2022-21223, a vulnerability in cocoapods-downloader that exposes systems to command injection via hg argument injection.

Understanding CVE-2022-21223

CVE-2022-21223 is a vulnerability found in the package cocoapods-downloader before version 1.6.2, allowing threat actors to execute arbitrary commands through manipulated hg arguments.

What is CVE-2022-21223?

The vulnerability in cocoapods-downloader prior to 1.6.2 enables attackers to inject commands through the hg clone command when setting additional flags. This can lead to unauthorized command execution on affected systems.

The Impact of CVE-2022-21223

With a CVSS base score of 8.1, CVE-2022-21223 poses a high risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability's network-based attack vector and high attack complexity make it an attractive target for malicious actors.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-21223

Let's delve into the specifics of CVE-2022-21223 to understand its implications and affected entities.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability enables command injection via hg argument injection in the download function of cocoapods-downloader, allowing threat actors to manipulate additional flags and execute unauthorized commands.

Affected Systems and Versions

Systems using cocoapods-downloader versions prior to 1.6.2 are susceptible to CVE-2022-21223. It is crucial for users to update to version 1.6.2 or higher to mitigate this security risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

Threat actors can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious commands through the hg clone command of cocoapods-downloader, leveraging additional flags to execute unauthorized operations.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from the risks associated with CVE-2022-21223, immediate action must be taken to prevent potential exploitation and ensure long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update cocoapods-downloader to version 1.6.2 or newer to eliminate the vulnerability and prevent unauthorized command execution. Additionally, it is essential to monitor for any suspicious activity on the system.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, conducting regular security assessments, and staying informed about software vulnerabilities are essential for enhancing long-term security posture.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying patches and updates, as well as staying vigilant about security advisories, can help organizations mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2022-21223 and similar vulnerabilities.